The National Hurricane Center reported at 2 P.m. Wednesday that Nicole had strengthened considerably overnight to a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of 100 mph and gusts to 120 mph. The storm is 270 miles south-southwest of Bermuda, moving north-northwest at 8 mph. Hurricane force winds extend out 45 miles, while tropical storm-force winds extend outward 160 miles from Nicole’s center.

A hurricane warning is in effect for Bermuda. Tropical storm conditions are expected to begin on the island Wednesday night.

Storm surge is forecast to be as high as 6 to 8 feet above normal tide. Fortunately, the island will be roughly at low tide at the storm’s peak. Large, destructive waves are expected to begin soon.

Rain accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are forecast through Thursday.

After possible landfall in Bermuda, Nicole would most likely head out into the open Atlantic, where it would likely dissipate over cold waters.